Brazilian superstar Anitta performed two new songs from her upcoming album “Equilibrium” during rehearsals for “Saturday Night Live” at New York’s 30 Rockefeller Plaza last week. The tracks, “Choka Choka” featuring Shakira and “Varias Quejas,” a Spanish-language version of an Olodum classic, are standouts from the eclectic album that blends Brazilian funk, samba, bossa nova, semba, reggae, and electronic pop across Portuguese, Spanish, and English.
Anitta described the performance as “the most Brazilian thing I've ever, ever done on television in America” and called “Equilibrium” her “most Brazilian album,” honouring her roots. The album marks a sonic shift from her 2024 release “Funk Generation,” which focused solely on Brazilian funk. While funk remains present, “Equilibrium” incorporates diverse sounds and beliefs from her homeland, including references to Yoruba culture and Orishas on tracks like “Nanã,” and themes of spirituality on songs exploring God.
The album embraces community with numerous Brazilian collaborators, including rising songwriter Melly, award-winning artist Liniker, and reggae band Ponto de Equilíbrio. “Choka Choka” features Colombian superstar Shakira singing in Portuguese, described by co-producer Daramola as “a love letter to Anitta's culture.” Anitta noted that she no longer prioritises reaching international audiences through English or Spanish, instead focusing on Portuguese and authenticity.
Specificity and storytelling are key on tracks like “Vai Dar Caô” featuring rapper Ebony and producer Papatinho, which samples DJ Mandrake and MC Tikão alongside Art of Noise’s “Moments In Love.” The album also includes softer songs like “Ternura” and concludes with a mantra from the goddess Tara. Anitta’s public persona has consistently elevated marginalised groups, including Afro-Brazilian faiths, women, favela residents, LGBTQ+ and Black people, as seen in her controversial 2024 video for “Aceita.”
